The Ranger 1000 by Vortex Optics is an excellent laser rangefinder for the price. Out of the many laser rangefinders I’ve researched, this Vortex Ranger 1000 review seems to hit the sweet spot in terms of accuracy, ruggedness, compact size, and price.
Yes, there are rangefinders for hunting, both cheaper and high end, that you could choose, but I know too many hunters who have gone this route, only to end up disappointed. Do not forget also, all Vortex products are backed by the legendary and unmatched Vortex VIP Lifetime Warranty. It’s such a solid offering for serious hunters that it warrants a more detailed review of why it stands out amongst other rangefinders.
Contents:
Accurate, and Reliable Ranging Capabilities
As we all know, the claimed range specifications for hunting optics are a little subjective. Advanced hunters and shooters will know from experience that the maximum range ratings are usually only achieved under the most ideal circumstances. When you hear some guys complaining about poor performance, oftentimes it’s just a lack of experience and training with the device.
The Ranger 1000 has a claimed max range of 1,000 yards for reflective targets and 500 yards for soft targets like deer. Take a quick look through the reviews online, and you will see these numbers are highly accurate. Some hunters tell of ranging deer out to 600 yards or more.
Accuracy is great, but the reliability of range measurements is just as important. Fortunately, the Vortex Optics Ranger 1000 is up to the challenge. Other rangefinders may register the distance faster than the Ranger, but it is highly reliable in giving you an accurate distance on the first attempt.
Compact and Rugged, yet Easy to Use
The Vortex Ranger gets another gold star for its compact and rugged build quality. The housing is compact compared and lightweight, with a rubberized armor coating that makes it a breeze to handle. The compact size makes it easy to hang from your neck without impeding your movements, as well as for quick stowing and retrieving from the case.
The Ranger 1000 has gained a solid reputation for ease of use. This is due to Vortex keeping the interface clean and simple. There are only two buttons, Menu, and Measure, which control all the settings of the rangefinder. Measurements are taken with three single clicks of the Measure button, and scanning occurs by holding it down.
As you get more familiar with the Ranger, you can start to use it with the more advanced LOS and HCS/Inclination features. It doesn’t get much more straightforward than that.
Features and Specifications
- Fully multi-coated lens coatings for excellent optical performance, with good light transmission.
- 6x22mm lens with an accuracy of +/-3 yards (out to 1,000 yards).
- 315ft Field of View
- Diopter provides precision focus control.
- Waterproof housing design. Good for all types of weather and climates.
- Adapter compatible allowing you to mount on tripods, car windows, and more.
- 3 Modes of Use – Line of sight (LOS) mode for range as you see it through the scope, Horizontal component distance (HCS) for compensating differences in elevation and angle of sight, and Scan Mode that provides continuous range readings while scanning over terrain.
- Illuminated, Clear, and easy to use menu system.
- Long life with a common CR2 coin cell battery you can find in most stores.
What Owners are saying about the Vortex Ranger 1000
You don’t have to take my review on its own that this is an awesome rangefinder. At the time of publishing this post, I found tons of customer reviews and ratings across the web. While the overwhelming majority of reviews have been positive, I should point out that there are some minor things people have pointed out.
First, there are some mixed feelings about the noise made by the buttons. One bowhunter has mentioned that they don’t like the clicking noise, for fear of spooking approaching animals. On the other hand, several owners have responded that they love the Ranger for bow hunting because of its compact size and ease of use. If you are a rifle hunter, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about.
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